CQC publishes positive report of Dewsbury ward

The Care Quality Commission (CQC) has published a positive report on the safety of Ward 18 at the Priestley unit in Dewsbury following an inspection in December 2017.

Ward 18 is an inpatient ward for working-age adults on Priestley unit at Dewsbury and District Hospital. It provides 24-hour support to people experiencing mental health conditions.

The CQC found that the ward had well-trained and competent staff delivering safe care and treatment to keep patients protected from harm.

Staff complete risk assessments for all patients on admission, and update them regularly to ensure facilities and equipment is safe for use by staff and patients.

The ward was also described as being clean and adequately maintained, with appropriate medication storage and access to fully equipped and organised clinic rooms.

The CQC suggested improvements could be made in just two areas.

Tim Breedon, director of nursing and quality, said: “Ward 18 aims to provide a relaxing environment for people experiencing a serious mental health condition that requires inpatient treatment. We always put safety first and I’m pleased that the CQC has recognised this, along with the hard work and commitment of our staff in providing high-quality care to patients.”

Read the full report online.